Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium L.)

Bitter orange, probably originated from the South-East Asiatic, first propagated in India and Persian, then in the tenth and eleventh centuries the Arabians divulged it among the Mediterranean countries.

Bitter orange is grown in Asia and parts of the Mediterranean. Neroli oil is obtained from the flowers of bitter orange.

Oil of bitter orange extensively used as a flavor in most food products, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, confectionary, baked goods, gelatins and puddings., soaps and detergents.

Bitter orange has been used traditionally as a sedative, an appetite stimulant, an insecticide for mosquitoes and for Tinea infections and dyspepsia.

Bitter orange is being used by some individuals for weight loss. In Puerto Rico, Citrus aurantium is used for sleep disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory ailments, and raised blood pressure.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium L.)